10 Greatest Rock Bass Solos of All Time
Throughout the history of rock music, bass solos have often been the unsung heroes, providing those unforgettable moments that make a song truly stand out.
Today, I'm taking you on a journey through some of the most iconic bass solos in rock history, and teaching you how to master these bass solos in your own time and incorporate soloing into your bass practice.
Let's dive in and celebrate the bass world's greatest shredders!
Originally published in 2020, this article was updated on October 11th, 2023.
The Essence of a Great Bass Solo
To the untrained eye, playing a great bass solo might look like something running their hands up and down the fretboard really quickly—but there’s a lot more to it.
In fact, you can boil a great solo down to a few different components:
- Tone and technique. A great solo isn't just about the notes you play, but how you play them. The tone, the technique, and the emotion all play a crucial role.
- Experimentation. While many bass players stick to the minor pentatonic and blues scales, the best solos often come from those who dare to step outside the box.
- Connection with the audience. A solo is a moment to connect with the audience, to tell a story, and to express oneself.
Celebrating Iconic Bass Solos
Hearing a great solo is a feeling that’s shared across all forms of rock music. From grunge to punk to heavy metal to thrash, there’s never been a shortage of impressive shredders stepping into the spotlight.
Now these solos are in no particular order—I wrote them down as they popped into my head.
Let’s start with…
1. Michael Anthony from Van Halen
This solo from Michael Anthony is one of the first bass solos I ever saw in my life—I can remember watching it on my couch before I was even a bass player, and it’s amazing.
His tone is absolutely killer and the note choice is simply impeccable, setting the stage for what a rock bass solo should sound like.
2. Geddy Lee from Rush
Next, we have Geddy Lee’s incredible solo from 2011. Here he’s playing his jazz bass and it sounds phenomenal!
As the frontman for the Canadian rock band Rush, Geddy Lee is known for his incredible playing and attack, and his solos never fail to impress.
3. Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers
Next up we have Flea from Red Hot Chili Peppers ripping it up at Slane Castle. He breaks away from his usual style here and goes for something a bit more experimental, which still encompasses his unique style and energy.
4. John Myung from Dream Theater
It’s hard to put what John Myung does into words, so I encourage you to simply watch it instead. Check out his amazing solo during “The Dance of Eternity.”
5. Les Claypool from Frog’s Brigade
Les Claypool gets bonus points for rocking his Robin Williams/Jumanji crossover outfit while teasing out this incredible solo for Frog’s Brigade. Don’t let the outfit distract you—this solo is unbelievably good!
6. John Entwhistle from the Who
No list of incredible bass solos would ever be complete without the one and only John Entwhistle. Here he is laying down some serious staccato in Atlanta in 2000.
7. Chris Squire from Yes
Another legend, Chris Squire from the progressive rock band Yes, shows everyone how it’s done.
8. Stuart Hamm
Stu Hamm is not usually known as a rock bass player because he’s played for so many different bands—but he has played with some of the biggest rock names in history. His versatility really shines in his solo for "Ritual", blending slapping with country rock techniques.
9. Cliff Burton from Metallica
You’ve probably been waiting for him to show up, so here is the one and only Cliff Burton ripping it up with the use of a wah-wah pedal. Absolutely phenomenal!
10. Billy Sheehan
Last but not least, my favorite rock bass player—Billy Sheehan. I can’t even tell you what this guy has—all I know is that it’s something that nobody else does. If you need proof, check him out absolutely annihilating this solo.
Moving Beyond Solos
Bass solos are more than just a series of notes—they're a form of expression, a moment to shine, and a testament to a bassist's skill and creativity.
Whether you're a budding bassist or a seasoned pro, there's always inspiration to be found in the great solos of the past.
But if you’re looking to take your bass practice to the next level, check out the SBL Academy. It offers tons of learning pathways to make you a better bass player in no time at all.
Try SBL Academy free for 14 days!
